1 Day in Taipei
Your perfect day — from morning to evening
May Travel Update for Taipei
As spring gives way to early summer in May, Taipei experiences warm and humid weather with temperatures ranging from a comfortable 24°C (75°F) to a balmy 30°C (86°F). This month is perfect for packing light layers, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen, and don't forget your sunglasses and sunscreen.
May marks the beginning of Taipei's vibrant cultural calendar, with highlights including the Digital Art Festival and the Taipei International Flora Expo. These events showcase Taiwan’s cutting-edge art scene alongside its lush natural beauty.
Visiting in May presents a unique challenge due to the occasional afternoon showers that characterize this season. However, these brief downpours often clear up quickly, making way for pleasant evenings ideal for exploring the city's bustling night markets and scenic parks.
Tips for May:
1. Catch the Digital Art Festival: Immerse yourself in cutting-edge multimedia art installations.
2. Explore Shilin Night Market during the weekend: Enjoy extended hours with live music and cultural performances.
3. Pack an umbrella or raincoat: Be prepared for sudden showers, but also ready to enjoy a rainbow after the rain.
May is indeed a dynamic time to visit Taipei, offering both cultural richness and natural beauty in full bloom.
Taipei Confucius Temple (Wēidōng Rìnán Road, Datong District)
Start your day early at the vibrant Taipei Confucius Temple, a serene oasis amidst the bustling city. Located at Wēidōng Rìnán Road in the Datong District, this temple is not only an architectural marvel but also a significant cultural landmark. As you enter through its grand gates, pay attention to the intricate carvings and tranquil gardens that evoke a sense of peace. Open daily from 9 AM until 6 PM, you can explore the temple's main hall where ancient texts are displayed alongside traditional ceremonies.
National Palace Museum (No. 221, Sec. 2, Zhishan Road, Shilin District)
Post your temple visit, head to the National Palace Museum, one of Taiwan’s premier cultural institutions and a short MRT ride away from Taipei Main Station. At No. 221, Sec. 2, Zhishan Road in Shilin District, you will find an extensive collection of artifacts spanning thousands of years, including Chinese imperial treasures such as jade carvings, ceramics, and calligraphy. Plan to spend a few hours here to fully appreciate the breadth of its exhibitions, which include rotating displays that change throughout the year.
Ximending (Zhonghua Road)
Try Shaved Ice:
In summer, don't miss trying "tāngyuan bīnfáng" (糖圓冰淇淋) - shaved ice topped with sweet red bean paste, tapioca balls, fresh fruits, and condensed milk. A great way to cool down during hot days!
Local Tea Culture:
Taiwan is renowned for its tea culture. Visit a small tea house or even the larger "Tea Street" in Ximending where locals gather to enjoy high-quality oolong teas.
Taipei 101 (237 Section 5, Xinyi Road, Xinyi District)
Conclude your day by heading to Taipei 101’s observation deck for stunning panoramic views of the city skyline. Located at 237 Section 5, Xinyi Road in Xinyi District, this iconic skyscraper not only offers breathtaking vistas but also has a unique feature: its elevator ride is one of the fastest in the world, reaching speeds up to 1010 meters per minute.
National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall (250 Zhongshan South Road, Section 7, Zhongzheng District)
This grand memorial honors former President Chiang Kai-shek and is an architectural marvel. The hall features a vast courtyard surrounded by a series of steps leading up to the main building, which includes a museum chronicling his life and political career.
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall’s Plaza (Zhongshan South Road)
Explore Tamsui:
Getting around Taipei can be quite convenient with an extensive MRT (mass rapid transit) system, which covers most major areas including the historic city center and newer developments like the Xinyi District. Single-ride tickets are sold at ticket machines or through rechargeable EasyCard contactless cards available at convenience stores.
The best time to visit Taipei is from September to November when temperatures are mild and autumn foliage creates a beautiful backdrop for sightseeing, especially around the National Palace Museum and Yangmingshan National Park.
Taiwan uses New Taiwan Dollars (NTD), with 1 USD approximately equal to NT$30. Credit cards are widely accepted in major stores and hotels but ATMs can be used if you prefer cash. Be sure to check for fees before withdrawing money abroad.
Safety in Taipei is generally high, though as with any city, it's wise to avoid isolated areas at night, especially around train stations where pickpocketing may occur. Use well-lit streets and sidewalks when traveling late at night or consider using ride-hailing apps like Uber or Grab (in some parts) for safer transportation options.